Blended families can experience certain hardships specific to their situation. For example, co-parents using their children as emotional weapons against the other parent. This is called child sabotage and is often the result of one or both co-parents being bitter, resentful or jealous because the other has moved on. Keith uses the story of Abraham, Sarah and Hagar to explain blended families with a co-parent living in the same house and the struggles they experienced.
Remember this, the children will grow up and figure out the truth for themselves! The #1 thing co-parents should focus on is what’s in the best interest of the child. In order to do what’s best for the child, co-parents must bury the hatchet and focus on the child’s well-being.
Vania shares some tips for those with multiple children:
- Treat all the children equally,
- Be consistent in each child’s life,
- Be mindful about what they are saying about their mom or dad…Even if it’s TRUE!
“Catching up with the Careys” is practical, Godly-based, relationship advice for engaged or married couples given by Husband & Wife team, Keith & Vania Carey. Keith Carey has over 10 yrs experience as a marriage counselor. He is the Pastor of “Faith in Action Ministries Incorporated” and works as a peer counselor. Vania Carey has over 20 yrs experience in Human Services and works as an addictions counselor. She holds a Master’s degree in Human Services Counseling and is currently working on her second Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.